Mary Hallworth · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 26th March I commenced an investigation into the death of Mary Hallworth date of birth 17.09.1915. The investigation concluded on the 18th July 2014 and the conclusion was one of Accidental Death. The medical cause of death was 1a) Bronchopneumonia 1b) Fractured left hip and ii) Asthma and Hypertension.

The circumstances leading to the death of the deceased are as follows:-

The deceased was a frail, elderly lady who was living at her home address. She was practically immobile and required assistance with all her daily needs. She was prone to falls from her bed. On the 18th March 2014 at 08.25am the deceased was found by a carer on the floor of her bedroom. She was complaining of pain on her left side. The carer sought assistance from the office as she was not medically trained. Following advice the carer left Mrs Hallworth when a family friend was contacted and arrived at the property. She was then lifted 'in a fireman's lift' and placed on the bed. She was still in pain and was given liquid paracetamol.

Despite the deceased being in pain and having fallen, no medical attention was sought or considered for a period of 24 hours.